RUGGING OF CATTLE

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21244, 15 October 1940, Page 10

RUGGING OF CATTLE

EFFECT ON PRODUCTION The dairy farmer who rugs his cattle during wintry weather usually reaps the advantage of an undiminished cream return, states an Australian exchange. Many other farmers would like to follow suit, but are deterred by the cost of buying a good warm rug. There is no reason, however, why a farmer so placed should not make his own cow Tugs. All that is required are the necessary number of com sacks, a ball of twine, a packing needle, and ordinary ingenuity.

A warm rug can be made out of two com bags, but for a big beast three bags might be necessary. Split the bags down the seams, sew them together, and place on the cow. After getting the right fit, cut off a strip of bagging so that the rug will not hang too low. This strip cut off may then be folded and sewn to the rug as a thigh strap. The front of the rug is then fitted by turning up the corners and sewing them to the sides of the rug. This strengthens the rug and obviates the necessity for cutting off the spare portion, which the cow would otherwise tread on. Neck and other fastenings may be easily fashioned to make the rug complete. This home-made rug will keep the cow warm, and after a few days’ wear will become practically waterj proof. The rug can be slipped off ; and on quite easily and it is advisable Ito remove it every day, except in j bleak or rainy weather. Each cow’s j name may be painted on its own rug. ! Rugging will certainly increase winj ter milk production.